Charity’s positive effect on families

A charity threatened by funding cuts has had a postive impact on families in 100 per cent of cases, according to a study.

Bosses at Home start said the independent research came at a vital time, as Derbyshire County Council reviews family services to find further savings.Of those surveyed in Amber Valley, 40 per cent said the scheme was of benefit while they were receiving the support, while 60 per cent said it helped while they were receiving the report and afterwards.

One respondent told researchers: “The support I received from Home-Start literally saved my life.”

Home start volunteers provide support including one-to-one sessions to families with young children. The help is tailor-made to the needs of the parents and children.